GDC 20006 Interview (con'd)

FiringSquad: The last event for GDC this year will be the Video Games Live music concert. Why was this event brought over to serve as the capstone for GDC?

Jamil Moledin: It’s a great example of the “What’s Next” theme, in that you have two prominent developers, Tommy Tallarico and Jack Wall, broadening the industry’s appeal beyond core gamers. While we as gamers envision this as a great treat, there are just as many fans of concert music who attend these events, who are looking for a whole new canon of musical literature to enjoy. And like games such as Brain Age, it brings families and people of all ages onto the same playing field when it comes to games.

FiringSquad: What other major new events will be held at GDC this year?

Jamil Moledin: The biggest new addition is the Graphic Impact Competition, which is a completely open contest to create compelling original art for a potential new IP. We’ve partnered with CG Society to combine our game art and visual effects communities and capabilities to bring it to life. The contest is running on CG Society’s forums, and the finalists’ work will be on display in the GDC Concourse. Finally, the winners will be awarded at a special visual arts VIP reception on Thursday night of GDC, with a set of prizes donated by our sponsors. It’s a great way to bring a higher level of interactivity to the GDC experience, while giving special attention to the artist.

FiringSquad: What do you think is the biggest benefit for game developers to attend GDC?

Jamil Moledin: It’s interesting that you ask for a singular benefit, because attendees consistently tell me that it’s a combination of three factors: learning, inspiration, and networking. Because of these reasons, GDC is a key feature on their calendar and career trajectory.

FiringSquad: Last year GDC was held in San Francisco but it's back in its long time home in San Jose this year. Will GDC be staying in San Jose for the foreseeable future?

Jamil Moledin: No. GDC will be in San Francisco in 2007, in both Moscone West and North. We are busting at the seams trying to fit GDC in San Jose this year, which I suppose is a good problem to have, but we will have room to grow in SF.

FiringSquad: Finally, is there anything else you wish to say about GDC 2006?

Jamil Moledin: Yes, I would strongly recommend attending the two platform keynotes from Sony’s Phil Harrison and Nintendo’s Satoru Iwata. Trust me!

FiringSquad would like to thank Jamil Moledin for taking part in this interview. We wish him and the rest of the GDC organizers the best of luck with GDC 2006, and GDC 2007 in the future!